Many have wondered what our 4-H program is doing as we explore the opportunity to develop a Shooting Sports program as it has been mentioned that guns are very dangerous. Our 4-H program is certainly in agreement with that, and our response is to help young people learn responsibility, respect and safety. New York State 4-H Shooting Sports is part of the 4-H Natural Resources Program offered through the Cornell Cooperative Extension system. With an emphasis on maximum safety and the most responsible use of firearms and archery equipment, youth participants have the opportunity to gain both vocational training knowledge and garner important life-long recreational skills. The New York State 4-H Shooting Sports program fosters responsibility and helps youth acquire and enhance knowledge, skills and abilities. 4-H Shooting Sports also seeks to develop social skills and leadership techniques while providing a broad range of opportunities for community service.
SAFETY, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & UNDERSTANDING ARE THE CORNERSTONES OF THE PROGRAM
Certified Volunteer Instructors supervise each 4-H Shooting Sports Program. Many of our Instructors hold dual certification through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the NRA and/or the National Muzzleloaders Association.
SAFETY is always our primary concern. Youth and adults are trained to know and to adhere to the Ten Commandments of Firearm Safety.
KNOWLEDGE about firearms, archery equipment and natural environment components is featured as Volunteer Instructors share years of experience.
SKILLS are developed under the watchful eyes of trained instructors. Youth learn new skills as
NYS 4-H Shooting Sports On Target with Positive
Youth Development
well as continue to improve and practice skill
techniques.
UNDERSTANDING, through education, is the key element of the 4-H Shooting Sports program as youth and adults learn about their rights, responsibilities and the role they play in the natural environment.
In early 2016 our 4-H Program will offer 4-H Shooting Sports as part of our Fingerlakes Natural Resources component. Our program will include many elements of the natural environment, and will also include hiking, fishing, animal tracks, wildlife habitat, and outdoor cooking. Our primary goal is teaching young people safety, respect for the natural elements outdoors and a genuine interest and curiosity to explore the local outdoor area right at home. If your are interested in finding out additional information about our upcoming 4-H Fingerlakes Naturalist program area please mark your calendar for February 3rd from 6:00 to 7:00 at the Human Services Complex as we host a Find out More about Shooting Sports and beyond. Our weather date will be February 17. In the event of inclement weather please check out our CCE website for cancellation information.
Thank you to SCOPE members for providing assistance to our 4-H program area; Les Wilson, Bob and Mark Rondinaro
Youth and Family Development
Mel Schroeder, Resource Educator, [email protected]
Schuyler County 4-H Youth Development Planning a Natural Resources
Program to include Shooting Sports